Local control robotic surgical devices and related methods

ABSTRACT

The various robotic medical devices include robotic devices that are disposed within a body cavity and positioned using a support component disposed through an orifice or opening in the body cavity. Additional embodiments relate to devices having arms coupled to a device body wherein the device has a minimal profile such that the device can be easily inserted through smaller incisions in comparison to other devices without such a small profile. Further embodiments relate to methods of operating the above devices.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 61,663,194, filed on Jun. 22, 2012,which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

GOVERNMENT SUPPORT

This invention was made with government support under Grant Nos.NNX09AO71A and NNX10AJ26G awarded by the National Aeronautics and SpaceAdministration and Grant No. W81XWH-09-2-0185awarded by U.S. ArmyMedical Research and Materiel Command within the Department of Defense.Accordingly, the government has certain rights in this invention.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The embodiments disclosed herein relate to various medical devices andrelated components, including robotic and/or in vivo medical devices andrelated components. Certain embodiments include various robotic medicaldevices, including robotic devices that are disposed within a bodycavity and positioned using a support component disposed through anorifice or opening in the body cavity. Further embodiment relate tomethods of operating the above devices.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Invasive surgical procedures are essential for addressing variousmedical conditions. When possible, minimally invasive procedures such aslaparoscopy are preferred.

However, known minimally invasive technologies such as laparoscopy arelimited in scope and complexity due in part to 1) mobility restrictionsresulting from using rigid tools inserted through access ports, and 2)limited visual feedback. Known robotic systems such as the da Vinci®Surgical System (available from Intuitive Surgical, Inc., located inSunnyvale, Calif.) are also restricted by the access ports, as well ashaving the additional disadvantages of being very large, very expensive,unavailable in most hospitals, and having limited sensory and mobilitycapabilities.

There is a need in the art for improved surgical methods, systems, anddevices.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Discussed herein are various embodiments relating to robotic surgicaldevices, including robotic devices configured to be disposed within acavity of a patient and positioned using a support or positioningcomponent disposed through an orifice or opening in the cavity.

In Example 1, a robotic device comprises a device body, a first arm, anda second arm. The device body has a motor housing and a gear housing.The motor housing comprises a first motor and a second motor. The gearhousing has a first gear positioned at a distal end of the gear housing,the first gear operably coupled to the first motor, and a second gearpositioned at a distal end of the gear housing, the second gear operablycoupled to the second motor. The first arm is operably coupled to thefirst gear and positioned substantially within a longitudinalcross-section of the device body when the first arm is extended in astraight configuration. The second arm is operably coupled to the secondgear and positioned substantially within the longitudinal cross-sectionof the device body when the second arm is extended in a straightconfiguration.

Example 2 relates to the robotic device according to Example 1, whereinthe gear housing comprises first, second, and third housing protrusionsdisposed at the distal end of the gear housing, wherein the first gearis disposed between the first and second housing protrusions and thesecond gear is disposed between the second and third housingprotrusions.

In Example 3, a robotic device comprises a device body, a first arm, anda second arm. The device body has a first gear and a second gear. Thefirst gear is positioned at a distal end of the device body andconfigured to rotate around a first axis parallel to a length of thedevice body. The second gear is positioned at the distal end of thedevice body and configured to rotate around a second axis parallel tothe length of the device body. The first arm is operably coupled to thefirst gear at a first shoulder joint, wherein the first shoulder jointis positioned substantially within a longitudinal cross-section of thedevice body. The second arm is operably coupled to the second gear at asecond shoulder joint, wherein the second shoulder joint is positionedsubstantially within the longitudinal cross-section of the device body.

In Example 4, a robotic device comprises a device body, a first arm, anda second arm. The device body has a motor housing and a gear housing.The motor housing has a first motor and a second motor. The gear housinghas a first gear and a second gear. The first gear is positioned at adistal end of the gear housing, is operably coupled to the first motor,and is positioned to rotate around a first axis parallel to a length ofthe device body. The second gear is positioned at a distal end of thegear housing, is operably coupled to the second motor, and is positionedto rotate around a second axis parallel to a length of the device body.The first arm is operably coupled to the first gear and has a firstupper arm and a first forearm. The first arm is positioned substantiallywithin a longitudinal cross-section of the device body when the firstarm is extended in a straight configuration such that the first upperarm and the first forearm are collinear. The second arm is operablycoupled to the second gear and has a second upper arm and a secondforearm. The second arm is positioned substantially within thelongitudinal cross-section of the device body when the second arm isextended in a straight configuration such that the second upper arm andthe second forearm are collinear.

While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments of thepresent invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art fromthe following detailed description, which shows and describesillustrative embodiments of the invention. As will be realized, theinvention is capable of modifications in various obvious aspects, allwithout departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded asillustrative in nature and not restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a perspective view a robotic medical device, according to oneembodiment.

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the robotic medical device of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1C is a perspective view of the robotic medical device of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the robotic medical device of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a device body of a robotic device,according to one embodiment.

FIG. 3B is a different perspective view of the device body of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 4A is a different perspective view of the device body of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 4B is a side view of the device body of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 5A is a different perspective view of the device body of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 5B is a different perspective view of the device body of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of some of the internal components of thedevice body of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 6B is a different perspective view of the internal components ofthe device body of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 7 is a cross-section view of the device body of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 8A is a perspective view of a gear housing, according to oneembodiment.

FIG. 8B is a different perspective view of the gear housing of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 9A is a different perspective view of parts of the gear housing ofFIG. 8A.

FIG. 9B is a different perspective view of parts of the gear housing ofFIG. 8A.

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of an upper arm, according to oneembodiment.

FIG. 10B is a different perspective view of the upper arm of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 11A is a different perspective and cutaway view of the upper arm ofFIG. 10A.

FIG. 11B is a side and cutaway view of the upper arm of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 11C is a cross-section view of the upper arm of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 12A is a side view of a portion of an upper arm, according to oneembodiment.

FIG. 12B is a cross-section view of the portion of the upper arm in FIG.12A.

FIG. 13A is a side view of a portion of an upper arm, according to oneembodiment.

FIG. 13B is a perspective view of the portion of the upper arm in FIG.13A.

FIG. 13C is a cross-section view of the portion of the upper arm in FIG.13A.

FIG. 13D is a cross-section view of the portion of the upper arm in FIG.13A.

FIG. 13E is a different perspective view of the portion of the upper armin FIG. 13A.

FIG. 14A is a perspective view of a portion of an upper arm, accordingto one embodiment.

FIG. 14B is a side view of the portion of the upper arm in FIG. 14A.

FIG. 15A is a side view of a portion of an upper arm, according to oneembodiment.

FIG. 15B is a perspective view of the portion of the upper arm in FIG.15A.

FIG. 16A is a side view of a portion of an upper arm, according to oneembodiment.

FIG. 16B is a perspective view of the portion of the upper arm in FIG.16A.

FIG. 17A is a side view of a portion of an upper arm, according to oneembodiment.

FIG. 17B is another side view of the portion of the upper arm in FIG.17A.

FIG. 17C is another side view of the portion of the upper arm in FIG.17A.

FIG. 18A is a perspective view of a forearm, according to oneembodiment.

FIG. 18B is a different perspective view of the forearm in FIG. 18A.

FIG. 19A is a perspective view of a portion of a forearm, according toone embodiment.

FIG. 19B is a different perspective view of the forearm in FIG. 19A.

FIG. 20A is a perspective view of a portion of a forearm, according toone embodiment.

FIG. 20B is a cross-section view of the forearm in FIG. 20A.

FIG. 21A is a perspective view of a portion of a forearm, according toone embodiment.

FIG. 21B is a different perspective view of the forearm in FIG. 21A.

FIG. 21C is a different perspective view of the forearm in FIG. 21A.

FIG. 22A is a perspective view of a forearm, according to oneembodiment.

FIG. 22B is a different perspective view of the forearm in FIG. 22A.

FIG. 23A is a cross-section view of a forearm, according to oneembodiment.

FIG. 23B is an expanded cross-section view of the forearm in FIG. 23A.

FIG. 24A is a perspective view of a portion of a forearm, according toone embodiment.

FIG. 24B is a different perspective view of the portion of the forearmin FIG. 24A.

FIG. 24C is a different perspective view of the portion of the forearmin FIG. 24A.

FIG. 25 is an exploded view of a forearm, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 26A is a cross-section view of a forearm, according to oneembodiment.

FIG. 26B is an expanded cross-section view of the forearm in FIG. 26A.

FIG. 27A is a perspective view of a forearm, according to oneembodiment.

FIG. 27B is a different perspective view of the forearm in FIG. 27A.

FIG. 27C is a different perspective view of the forearm in FIG. 27A.

FIG. 28A is a perspective view of a portion of a forearm, according toone embodiment.

FIG. 28B is a different perspective view of the portion of the forearmin FIG. 28A.

FIG. 28C is a different perspective view of the portion of the forearmin FIG. 28A.

FIG. 28D is a different perspective view of the portion of the forearmin FIG. 28A.

FIG. 29A is a side view of a portion of a forearm, according to oneembodiment.

FIG. 29B is a perspective view of the portion of the forearm in FIG.29A.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view a robotic medical device, according to oneembodiment.

FIG. 31A is a top view of the medical device of FIG. 30.

FIG. 31B is an expanded top view of a portion of the device in FIG. 31A.

FIG. 31C is a side view of the portion of the device in FIG. 31B.

FIG. 31D is a side view of a portion of a medical device, according toanother embodiment.

FIG. 32A is a perspective view of a joint of a medical device, accordingto one embodiment.

FIG. 32B is a perspective view of a gear from the joint of FIG. 32A.

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of the medical device of FIG. 30.

FIG. 34 is an exploded view of a forearm, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 35 is an exploded view of a forearm, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 36 is an exploded view of a forearm, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 37 is an exploded view of a forearm, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 38A is an expanded perspective view of a portion of the forearm ofFIG. 37.

FIG. 38B is an expanded perspective view of a portion of the forearm ofFIG. 37.

FIG. 39A is an expanded perspective view of a portion of the forearm ofFIG. 37.

FIG. 39B is an expanded perspective view of a portion of the forearm ofFIG. 37.

FIG. 40A is a perspective view of an access and insertion device,according to one embodiment.

FIG. 40B-1 is a perspective view of an access and insertion device inuse, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 40B-2 is a perspective view of the access and insertion device ofFIG. 40B-1 in use.

FIG. 40B-3 is a perspective view of the access and insertion device ofFIG. 40B-1 in use.

FIG. 40B-4 is a perspective view of the access and insertion device ofFIG. 40B-1 in use.

FIG. 41A is a side view of an access and insertion device, according toone embodiment.

FIG. 41B is a perspective view of the access and insertion device ofFIG. 41A.

FIG. 42A is a exploded view of a portion of an access and insertiondevice, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 42B is a perspective view of the portion of the access andinsertion device of FIG. 42A.

FIG. 43 is a side view of a portion of the access and insertion deviceof FIG. 42A.

FIG. 44A is a perspective view of an access and insertion device in use,according to one embodiment.

FIG. 44B is a perspective view of the access and insertion device ofFIG. 44A in use.

FIG. 44C is a perspective view of the access and insertion device ofFIG. 44A in use.

FIG. 44D is a perspective view of the access and insertion device ofFIG. 44A in use.

FIG. 44E is a perspective view of the access and insertion device ofFIG. 44A in use.

FIG. 44F is a perspective view of the access and insertion device ofFIG. 44A in use.

FIG. 45A is a side view of a portion of an access and insertion device,according to one embodiment.

FIG. 45B is a cross-section view of the portion of the access andinsertion device of FIG. 45A.

FIG. 45C is a side view of the portion of the access and insertiondevice of FIG. 45A.

FIG. 45D is a side view of the portion of the access and insertiondevice of FIG. 45A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The various systems and devices disclosed herein relate to devices foruse in medical procedures and systems. More specifically, variousembodiments relate to various medical devices, including robotic devicesand related methods and systems.

It is understood that the various embodiments of robotic devices andrelated methods and systems disclosed herein can be incorporated into orused with any other known medical devices, systems, and methods. Forexample, the various embodiments disclosed herein may be incorporatedinto or used with any of the medical devices and systems disclosed incopending U.S. application Ser. Nos. 11/766,683 (filed on Jun. 21, 2007and entitled “Magnetically Coupleable Robotic Devices and RelatedMethods”), 11/766,720 (filed on Jun. 21, 2007 and entitled “MagneticallyCoupleable Surgical Robotic Devices and Related Methods”), 11/966,741(filed on Dec. 28, 2007 and entitled “Methods, Systems, and Devices forSurgical Visualization and Device Manipulation”), 61/030,588 (filed onFeb. 22, 2008), 12/171,413 (filed on Jul. 11, 2008 and entitled “Methodsand Systems of Actuation in Robotic Devices”), 12/192,663 (filed Aug.15, 2008 and entitled Medical Inflation, Attachment, and DeliveryDevices and Related Methods”), 12/192,779 (filed on Aug. 15, 2008 andentitled “Modular and Cooperative Medical Devices and Related Systemsand Methods”), 12/324,364 (filed Nov. 26, 2008 and entitled“Multifunctional Operational Component for Robotic Devices”), 61/640,879(filed on May 1, 2012), 13/493,725 (filed Jun. 11, 2012 and entitled“Methods, Systems, and Devices Relating to Surgical End Effectors”),13/546,831 (filed Jul. 11, 2012 and entitled “Robotic Surgical Devices,Systems, and Related Methods”), 61/680,809 (filed Aug. 8, 2012),13/573,849 (filed Oct. 9, 2012 and entitled “Robotic Surgical Devices,Systems, and Related Methods”), and 13/738,706 (filed Jan. 10, 2013 andentitled “Methods, Systems, and Devices for Surgical Access andInsertion”), and U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,492,116 (filed on Oct. 31, 2007 andentitled “Robot for Surgical Applications”), 7,772,796 (filed on Apr. 3,2007 and entitled “Robot for Surgical Applications”), and 8,179,073(issued May 15, 2011, and entitled “Robotic Devices with Agent DeliveryComponents and Related Methods”), all of which are hereby incorporatedherein by reference in their entireties.

Certain device and system implementations disclosed in the applicationslisted above can be positioned within a body cavity of a patient incombination with a support component similar to those disclosed herein.An “in vivo device” as used herein means any device that can bepositioned, operated, or controlled at least in part by a user whilebeing positioned within a body cavity of a patient, including any devicethat is coupled to a support component such as a rod or other suchcomponent that is disposed through an opening or orifice of the bodycavity, also including any device positioned substantially against oradjacent to a wall of a body cavity of a patient, further including anysuch device that is internally actuated (having no external source ofmotive force), and additionally including any device that may be usedlaparoscopically or endoscopically during a surgical procedure. As usedherein, the terms “robot,” and “robotic device” shall refer to anydevice that can perform a task either automatically or in response to acommand.

Certain embodiments provide for insertion of the present invention intothe cavity while maintaining sufficient insufflation of the cavity.Further embodiments minimize the physical contact of the surgeon orsurgical users with the present invention during the insertion process.Other implementations enhance the safety of the insertion process forthe patient and the present invention. For example, some embodimentsprovide visualization of the present invention as it is being insertedinto the patient's cavity to ensure that no damaging contact occursbetween the system/device and the patient. In addition, certainembodiments allow for minimization of the incision size/length. Furtherimplementations reduce the complexity of the access/insertion procedureand/or the steps required for the procedure. Other embodiments relate todevices that have minimal profiles, minimal size, or are generallyminimal in function and appearance to enhance ease of handling and use.

Certain embodiments herein relate to robotic devices (also referred toherein as “platforms”) configured to be inserted into a patientcavity—such as an insufflated abdominal cavity—and related systems andmethods. In some embodiments, the systems include direct visualizationof the device during the procedure. Other embodiments relate to variousaccess or insertion devices that can be used to position the aboverobotic devices in the patient's cavity.

One embodiment of a robotic device 8 is depicted in FIGS. 1A-1C and 2.This embodiment has a device body 10, a left arm 20, and a right arm 30,as shown in FIGS. 1A and 2. Both the left and right arms 20, 30 are eachcomprised of 2 segments: an upper arm (or “first link”) and a forearm(or “second link”). Thus, as best shown in FIG. 1B, the left arm 20 hasan upper arm 20A and a forearm 20B and the right arm 30 has an upper arm30A and a forearm 30B. As also shown in FIGS. 1B and 2, the device mainbody 10 can, in some embodiments, be coupled to an insertion rod 40.

As best shown in FIG. 1C, the various joints in the right arm 30 providefor various degrees of freedom. More specifically, the right shoulder(the joint at which the upper arm 30A is coupled to the device body 10)provides two degrees of freedom: shoulder pitch θ1 and shoulder yaw θ2.The elbow joint (the joint at which the forearm 30B is coupled to theupper arm 30A) provides elbow yaw θ3, and the end effector on the distalend of the forearm 30B provides end effector roll θ4.

As shown in FIGS. 1A-1C and 2, the device 8 is configured to have areduced profile and/or cross-section. That is, the shoulder joints(where the upper arms 20A, 30A couple with the body 10), are positionedwithin the longitudinal cross-section of the body 10 such that shoulderjoints and the proximal ends of the upper arms 20A, 30A do not extendbeyond or exceed that cross-section. Further, when the arms 20, 30 arepositioned in a straight configuration such that the upper arms 20A, 30Aand forearms 20B, 30B extend along the same axis (the elbows are notbent), no part of the arms 20, 30 extend beyond the longitudinalcross-section of the body 10. This minimal cross-section greatlysimplifies insertion of the device 8 into an incision. For purposes ofthis application, the “longitudinal cross-section” is the cross-sectionof the body 10 as viewed when looking at the distal end or the proximalend of the body 10 such that one is looking along the longitudinal axisof the body 10.

Various embodiments of the device body 10 are depicted in FIGS. 3A-9B.As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the device body 10 has a motor housing 50that is configured to contain at least one motor (described below) and amaster control board (not shown) or other processor configured tocontrol various components and/or actions of the device. The device body10 also has a gear housing 62 coupled to the motor housing 50. Inaddition, as best shown in FIGS. 3A and 5A, the housing 50 has a housingcover 52 that is configured to be coupleable to the housing 50 and toprovide access to the at least one motor positioned within an internalportion of the housing 50.

In one embodiment as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the housing cover 52 hasan opening 53 defined in the portion of the housing cover 52 that coversthe proximal end of the housing 50. The opening 53 is configured toreceive an insertion rod 54 (also referred to as a “positioning rod” or“positioning component”). In accordance with one implementation, screws56 or other fastening components are used to couple the rod 54 to thecover 52 as shown. According to one implementation, the insertion rod 54is used to advance the device 8 during insertion. In otherimplementations, it can also be used to position the device 8 within thepatient's cavity during the procedure. In accordance with certainembodiments, the rod 54 will have communication and power wires (alsoreferred to herein as “cables” or “connection components”) disposed inone or more lumens defined in the rod 54 that will operably couple thedevice 8 to an external controller (not shown). For example, theexternal controller can be a personal computer, a joystick-likecontroller, or any other known controller that allows a user to operatethe device 8. In further embodiments in which the device 8 has at leastone camera, the connection components can also include one or morecamera and/or lighting wires.

As best shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the motor housing 50 is coupled to thegear housing 62 such that a portion of each of the motor assemblies 60A,60B is positioned in the motor housing 50 and a portion is positioned inthe gear housing 62. In one embodiment, the motor housing 50 is coupledto the gear housing 62 with screws 44, 46 that are positioned throughholes in the motor housing 50 and threadably coupled within holes in thegear housing 62.

As best shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, in one embodiment the housing cover 52is removably coupled to the motor housing 50 with screws 48. The screws48 are positioned through holes defined in the housing 50 and threadablycoupled within holes in the housing cover 52. Alternatively, any knowncoupling mechanisms, such as bolts or snap or friction fit mechanisms,can be used to removably couple the cover 52 to the housing 50.

As discussed above and depicted in FIGS. 4A, 4B, 5A, and 5B, the devicebody 10 contains the two motor assemblies 60A, 60B. The two motorassemblies 60A, 60B actuate the movement of the left and right arms 20,30, as will be described in further detail below. In addition, the body10 can also contain a master control board (not shown) and astereoscopic camera (not shown). In one embodiment, the master controlboard controls the motors 60A, 60B.

In accordance with one embodiment, each of the two motor assemblies 60A,60B is the actuator for a drive train with a three stage gear head. Thatis, the left motor assembly 60A is the actuator for a drive traincoupled to the left arm 20, while the right motor assembly 60B is theactuator for a drive train coupled to the right arm 30. While thefollowing description will focus on the right motor 60B and its drivetrain, it is understood that the left motor assembly 60A and its drivetrain will have similar components and operate in a similar fashion.

In one implementation, as best shown in FIGS. 6A, 6B, 8A, 8B, 9A, and9B, the first stage of the three stage gear head is the gear head 60B-2attached to the motor 60B-1 of the motor assembly 60B. The second stageis the spur gear set, which is made up of the motor gear 68 and thedriven gear 96 as best shown in FIG. 9A. The motor gear 68 and thedriven gear 96 are rotationally coupled to each other in the gearhousing 62. In one embodiment, the motor gear 68 and driven gear 96 arespur gears. Alternatively, they can be any known gears. The motor gear68 is also known as a “first gear,” “drive gear,” or “driving gear.” Thedriven gear 96 is also known as a “second gear” or “coupling gear.” Thethird stage is the bevel gear set, which is made up of the housing bevelgear 92 and the link bevel gear 102. The housing bevel gear 92 and thelink bevel gear 102 are rotationally coupled to each other as best shownin FIG. 9A. These components and gear sets will be discussed in detailbelow. The housing bevel gear 92 is also known as the “third gear,”“housing gear,” “second drive gear,” or “first shoulder gear.” The linkbevel gear 102 is also know as the “fourth gear,” “link gear,” or“second shoulder gear.”

As best shown in FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 7, both the right and left motorassemblies 60A, 60B are positioned at their distal ends into the gearhousing 62. The right motor assembly 60B has a motor 60B-1 and agearhead 60B-2. In this embodiment, the gearhead 60B-2 is the firststage gear head and is operably coupled to the motor 60B-1. The motorassembly 60B has a motor shaft 67 operably coupled at the distal end ofthe assembly 60B. In one embodiment, the motor shaft 67 has a flatsurface 67A that creates a “D” configuration that geometrically couplesthe shaft 67 to the spur gear 68. The right motor assembly 60B ispositioned in the right motor gear opening 69 of the gear housing 62, asbest shown in FIG. 6B. In one embodiment, the motor assembly 60B has aconfiguration or structure that allows for the assembly 60B to begeometrically coupled within the right motor gear opening 69. Further,as best shown in FIG. 7, the gear housing 62 has a clamp 70 that can beused to retain the motor assembly 60B within the motor gear opening 69.That is, a threaded screw 66 or other coupling mechanism is positionedin the clamp 70 and threaded into the clamp 70, thereby urging the clamp70 against the assembly 60B, thereby retaining it in place.Alternatively, the assemblies 60A, 60B can be secured to the housing 62via adhesive or any other known coupling or securement mechanisms ormethods.

As best shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the gear housing 62 is coupled to abearing housing 64. In one embodiment, the bearing housing 64 iscomprised of three housing projections 64A, 64B, 64C. As best shown inFIG. 8B in combination with FIGS. 9A and 9B, the right driven spur gearassembly 96 is rotationally coupled to the bearing housing 64. Morespecifically, the right driven spur gear assembly 96 is rotationallyretained in the bearing housing by the bearings 94, 98 as shown in FIG.9A. The bearings 94, 98 are positioned in and supported by the bearinghousing 64 and the gear housing 62.

As best shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B in combination with FIGS. 9A and 9B,the spur gear assembly 96 is operably coupled to the housing bevel gear92 such that the spur gear 96 drives the bevel gear 92. Morespecifically, the spur gear 96 is positioned over the proximal portionof the bevel gear 92, with the proximal portion having a flat portion orother configuration that rotationally couples the spur gear 96 to thebevel gear 92 such that the spur gear 96 and bevel gear 92 are notrotatable in relation to each other. Further, the bevel gear 92 ispositioned between the first and second housing projections 64A and 64Band supported by bearings 94, 98. As best shown in FIG. 9A, the bearings94, 98 and the spur gear 96 are secured to the gear 92 by screw 100,which is threadably coupled to the bevel gear 92. Further, the bevelgear 92 is rotationally coupled to the first and second projections 64A,64B. The spur gear 96 and bevel gear 92 are rotationally coupled tohousing 62 and housing 64 by screws 80, 82 (as best shown in FIG. 8A),which are threadably coupled to the housings 62, 64 such that thehousings 62, 64 are coupled to each other.

As mentioned above, the bevel gear 92 is rotationally coupled to thelink 102, which is operably coupled to the right arm 30 of the device 8as described in further detail below. Thus, the link 102 couples thedevice body 10 to the right arm 30 such that actuation of the motor 60Bresults in actuation of some portion or component of the right arm 30.The link 102 is supported by bearings 90A, 90B, which are coupled to thehousing 64 as best shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B.

In one implementation, the right upper arm 30A is coupled to the devicebody 10. And in certain embodiments, the right upper arm 30A is morespecifically coupled to the link 102 discussed above. As best shown inFIGS. 10A and 10B, the upper arm 30A is coupled to the device body 10 atthe link 102. The upper arm 30A has a motor housing 128 configured tohold at least one motor and a housing cover 124 coupled to the housing128. The housing cover 124 is coupled to the motor housing 128 by screws126, which are threadably coupled to the motor housing 128 as shown.Alternatively, any mechanical coupling mechanisms can be used. The motorhousing 128 is operably coupled to a spur gear housing 120 at each endof the motor housing 128 such that there are two spur gear housings 120coupled to the motor housing 128.

As best shown in FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 11C, the housing 128 contains twomotor and gear head assemblies 142, 143 and a local control board 132,which will be described in further detail below. The two assemblies 142,143 are secured to the housing 128 with screws 130, which are threadablycoupled to motor housing 128 as best shown in FIG. 10B.

As best shown in FIG. 11A, the local control board 132 is operablycoupled to the motor housing 128 and housing cover 124 and controls thetwo motor assemblies 142, 143 in the housing 128. The board 132 is alsooperably connected to both of the motor assemblies 142, 143 within thehousing 128 via flexible electrical ribbon cable (either FFC or FPC)134, 136. The board 132 receives communications (such as commands andrequests, for example) from the master control board (not shown) locatedin the device body 10 via the flexible electrical ribbon cable 134.Further, the board 132 also transmits, passes, or relays communications(such as commands and requests) from the master board to the next devicecomponent, which—in this embodiment—is the right forearm 30B via theflexible electrical ribbon cable 136.

According to one implementation, each of the local boards disclosedherein is “daisy chained” or wired together in a sequence in the device8. In this context, “daisy chain” is intended to have its standarddefinition as understood in the art. The local boards are daisy chainedtogether using flexible ribbon cable such as the cable 134, 136 suchthat the cable can transmit power, analog signals, and digital data. Theuse of a daisy chain configuration can create an electrical bus andreduce the number of wires required.

In one embodiment, the two motor assemblies 142, 143 are responsible forthe right arm 30 shoulder yaw and elbow pitch as best shown in FIG. 1C.Like the description of the motor assemblies in the device body 10 asdiscussed above, the two motor assemblies 142, 143 in the upper arm 30Aas best shown in FIGS. 11B and 11C are substantially similar, so theright motor assembly 142 will be discussed in detail herein. As bestshown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, the motor drive train has a three stage gearhead. The first stage is the gear head 142B attached to the motor 142Ain the motor assembly 142 (as best shown in FIG. 11C), the second stageis a spur gear set made up of the motor spur gear 138 and the drivenspur gear 156, and the third stage is a bevel gear set made up of thebevel gear 152 and the driven bevel gear 170. All of these componentswill be described in further detail below.

As best shown in FIG. 13A, the motor assembly 142 has a drive shaft 144that is operably coupled to the spur gear 138. In one embodiment, thedrive shaft 144 has a flat portion 144A that results in a D-shapedshaft, which helps to rotationally couple the spur gear 138 to the shaft144. In a further implementation, the spur gear 138 can be furthercoupled to the shaft 144 using a bonding material such as, for example,JB-Weld. Alternatively, the spur gear 138 can be coupled to the shaft144 in any known fashion using any known mechanism.

As best shown in FIGS. 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, and 13E, the motor assembly142 is positioned within a lumen 145 defined in the spur gear housing120. According to one embodiment, the assembly 142 can be coupled orotherwise retained within the lumen 145 using a clamping assembly 146(as best shown in FIGS. 13C and 13D). That is, once the motor assembly142 is positioned within the lumen 145, the screw 140 can be urged intothe hole, thereby urging the clamping assembly 146 against the motorassembly 142, thereby frictionally retaining the assembly 142 in thelumen 145. Alternatively, the assembly 142 can be secured to the housing120 via adhesive or any other known coupling or securement mechanisms ormethods.

As best shown in FIGS. 12A, 12B, 14A, and 14B, the second stage spurgear set is made up of the motor spur gear 138 and the driven spur gear156. The two gears 138, 156 are rotationally coupled to each otherwithin the spur gear housing 120 as shown. Further, the driving bevelgear 152 is operably coupled with the driven spur gear 156, withbearings 154, 158 positioned on either side of the spur gear 156,thereby creating the spur/bevel assembly 150. The spur gear 156 isrotationally coupled to the bevel gear 152 such that neither the spurgear 156 nor the bevel gear 152 can rotate in relation to each other. Inone embodiment, the two gears 156, 152 are rotationally coupled using aD-shaped geometric feature. The spur gear 156 is translationallyconstrained by the supporting bearings 154, 158, which are preloadedthrough screw 160. The fully assembled assembly 150 can be positioned inthe lumen 151 in motor housing 120.

As shown in FIGS. 15A, 15B, 16A, 16B, 17A, 17B, and 17C, the third stagebevel gear set is made up of a drive bevel gear 152 and a link bevelgear 170. As discussed above, the drive bevel gear 152 is part of thespur/bevel assembly 150 and thus is operably coupled to and driven bythe spur gear 156.

Setting aside for a moment the focus on the motor assembly 142 andrelated components coupled thereto (and the fact that the descriptionrelating to the assembly 142 and related components applies equally tothe motor assembly 143), it is understood that there are two link bevelgears 170A, 170B positioned at opposite ends of the upper arm 30A, asbest shown in FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 11C. The link bevel gear 170A operablycouples the upper arm 30A to the device body 10, while the link bevelgear 170B operably couples the upper arm 30A to the forearm 30B.

Returning to FIGS. 15A-17C, the bearings 172, 174 support the link bevelgear 170. As best shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B, the bearings 172, 174 aresupported by the bearing housing 176, which is made up of two housingprojections 176A, 176B. The bearing housing 176 can apply a preloadforce to the bearings 172, 174. As best shown in FIGS. 17A-17C, thehousing projections 176A, 176B are secured to the motor housing 120 byscrews 180, 182, which are threadably coupled through the motor housing120 and into the housing projections 176A, 176B.

As discussed above, it is understood that the above description relatingto the upper arm 30A also applies to upper arm 20A as well. That is, incertain embodiments, the upper arm 30A and upper arm 20A aresubstantially the same.

FIGS. 18A-21C depict one implementation of a grasper forearm component200 (which could, of course, be the forearm 30B discussed and depictedabove) that can be coupled to the upper arm 30A. More specifically, theforearm 30B has an opening 218 defined at a proximal end of the arm 200that is configured to be coupled to the link bevel gear 170B asdiscussed above. This forearm 200 has a grasper end effector (alsoreferred to herein as a “manipulation end effector”) 256 discussed infurther detail below.

As best shown in FIGS. 18A and 18B, in this embodiment, the grasperforearm 200 has a motor housing 202 coupled to a gear housing 212. Thetwo housings 202, 212 contain two motor assemblies 206, 208, whichactuate rotation of the grasper end effector 256 and opening/closing ofthe grasper 256, as described in further detail below. The motor housing202 also contains the local control board 210 and has a housing cover(also referred to as a “cap”) 204 configured to removably cover theopening 205 that provides access to the interior of the motor housing202. The cover 204 can be coupled to the housing 202 with screw 216. Inaddition, the screw 216 is threadably positioned into the opening 218and thus can be threadably coupled to the link bevel gear 170 asdiscussed above, thereby rotationally coupling the forearm 200 to theupper arm 30A. The motor housing 202 and cover 204 are coupled to thegear housing 212 with screws 214, which are threadably coupled throughopenings in the housing 202 and cover 204 and into the gear housing 212.In one implementation, the local control board 210 can be the same orsimilar to the local control board 132 in the upper arm as describedabove. The board 210 is coupled to the local control board 132 via theflexible electrical ribbon cable 136 in the upper arm 30A as describedabove.

As best shown in FIGS. 19A-20B, the two motor assemblies 206, 208 arecoupled to the gear housing 212 via clamps 222, 230. More specifically,the motor assembly 206 is coupled to the housing 212 with the clamp 222as best shown in FIGS. 19A and 19B, while the motor assembly 208 iscoupled to the housing with the clamp 230 as best shown in FIGS. 20A and20B. Alternatively, the assemblies 206, 208 can be secured to thehousing 212 via adhesive or any other known coupling or securementmechanisms or methods.

As best shown in FIGS. 19A and 19B, the clamp 222 is coupled to the gearhousing 212 with screws 224, which are threadably positioned throughholes in the clamp 222 and into the gear housing 212. According to oneembodiment, the clamp 222 secures the motor assembly 206 by frictionalforce applied by urging the clamp 222 against the housing 212 with thescrews 224. As best shown in FIG. 19B, the motor assembly 206 containstwo parts: a motor 206B and gear head 206A. In accordance with oneimplementation, the gear head 206A is operably coupled to the motor206B. A drive gear (which is also a “spur gear”) 220 is operably coupledto the shaft 207 extending from the motor assembly 206. In oneembodiment, the shaft 207 has a flat portion resulting in a “D shaped”geometry, and the gear 220 has a hole that mates that geometry, therebyensuring that the shaft 207 and gear 220 are not rotatable in relationto each other when they are coupled. In a further alternative, the gear220 is also adhesively coupled to the shaft 207 with JB Weld or anyknown adhesive material. Alternatively, the gear 220 and shaft 207 canbe coupled in any known fashion using any known coupling mechanism orconfiguration.

As best shown in FIGS. 20A and 20B, the clamp 230 is urged toward thehousing 212 with screw 232, thereby creating frictional retention of themotor assembly 208. As such, the clamp 230 can retain the assembly 208in the housing 212.

As best shown in FIG. 21C, the motor assembly 208 has two parts: a motor208A and a gear head 208B coupled to the motor 208A. A drive gear (whichis also a “spur gear”) 264 is operably coupled to the shaft 209extending from the motor assembly 208. In one embodiment, the shaft 209has a flat portion resulting in a “d shaped” geometry, and the gear 264has a hole that mates that geometry, thereby ensuring that the shaft 209and gear 264 are not rotatable in relation to each other when they arecoupled. In a further alternative, the gear 264 is also adhesivelycoupled to the shaft 209 with JB Weld or any known adhesive material.Alternatively, the gear 264 and shaft 209 can be coupled in any knownfashion using any known coupling mechanism or configuration.

As best shown in FIG. 21A, drive spur gear 264 is coupled in the gearhousing 212 with driven spur gear 250, and actuation of the drive spurgear 264 (and thus the driven spur gear 250) causes the grasper endeffector 256 to rotate. Further, as best shown in FIGS. 19B and 21B, thedrive spur gear 220 is coupled in the gear housing 212 with driven spurgear 248, and actuation of the drive spur gear 220 (and thus the drivespur gear 248) causes the grasper end effector 256 to move between itsopen and closed positions.

Continuing with FIG. 21A, the gear housing 212 has a bearing cover (alsoreferred to as a “cap”) 240, which is attached to the gear housing 212by screws 242 which are threadably coupled through holes in the cover240 and into the gear housing 212. The screws 242 can also be configuredto apply a preload force to bearings 244, 246, 260, 252. As shown inFIG. 21B, the bearings 244, 246, 260, 252 are supported within the gearhousing 212. Bearings 244, 246 support the driven spur gear 248 of theend effector actuation spur gear set 220, 248.

Continuing with FIG. 21B, the spur gear 248 has a lumen with internalthreads formed in the lumen and thus can be threadably coupled to thegrasper drive pin 254, which can be positioned at its proximal end inthe lumen of the spur gear 248. As the spur gear 248 rotates, thethreads in the lumen of the spur gear 248 coupled to the threads on thedrive pin 254 cause the drive pin 254 to translate, thereby causing thegrasper links 256 to move between open and closed positions. In thisparticular embodiment, translation of the drive pin 254 is transferredthrough a four bar linkage made up of links 262A, 262B and grasper links256A, 256B. Alternatively, this actuation of the grasper 256 can beaccomplished through any other known mechanisms such as a pin and slotor worm gear drive train. A pin 266 secures the four bar linkage 262A,262B, 256A, 256B to the spur gear 250. The pin 266 is threadably coupledto spur gear 250.

The bearings 260, 252 support the driven spur gear 250. The driven spurgear 250 is coupled to the grasper 256 such that when spur gear 250 isrotated, the grasper 256 is rotated. To rotate the grasper 256 withoutalso actuating the grasper to move between its open and closedpositions, the spur gear 248 must rotate in the same direction and atthe same speed as the spur gear 250. That is, as described above, thedrive pin 254 is rotationally coupled to spur gear 250 (otherwisetranslation of the pin 254 is not possible) such that when spur gear 250is rotated (to cause the end effector to rotate), the drive pin 254 isalso rotated. Hence, if spur gear 248 is not also rotated in the samedirection at the same speed as the spur gear 250, the drive pin 254 willtranslate, thereby causing the grasper 256 to open or close. As aresult, to rotate the grasper 256 without opening or closing it, thespur gears 250 and 248 must rotate together. The spacer 258 can providespacing between the bearings 246, 260 and can also transfer the preloadforce through each bearing within the assembly.

FIGS. 22A-24C depict an alternative embodiment relating to a cauteryforearm component 300 (which could, of course, be the forearm 30Bdiscussed and depicted above) that can be coupled to the upper arm 30A.More specifically, as best shown in FIG. 22A, the forearm 300 has anopening 306 defined at a proximal end of the arm 300 that is configuredto be coupled to the link bevel gear 170B as discussed above. In oneimplementation, a screw 308 secures or threadably couples the link bevelgear 170B to motor housing 302A. This forearm 300 has a cautery endeffector 332 that can be a monopolar electrocautery device as discussedin further detail below.

As shown in FIGS. 22A and 22B, the forearm 300 is made up a motorhousing 302 that is coupled to a gear housing 304. A motor assembly 320is positioned within the motor housing 302 and gear housing 304. Themotor housing 302 is actually made up of two housing components—a firstmotor housing component 302A and a second motor housing component302B—that are coupled to each other to make up the housing 302. Thefirst component 302A and second component 302B are secured to each otherat least in part by the screw 310, which is inserted through holes inboth components 302A, 302B and threadably coupled to both. The motorhousing 302 is secured to the gear housing 304 via screws 312, which arepositioned through holes in the motor housing 302 and into the gearhousing 304.

As best shown in FIGS. 23A-24C, the motor assembly 320 is comprised oftwo parts: a motor 320B and a gear head 320A, which is operably coupledto the motor 320B. A drive gear (which is also a “spur gear”) 324 isoperably coupled to the shaft 322 extending from the motor assembly 320.In one embodiment, the shaft 322 has a flat portion resulting in a “dshaped” geometry, and the gear 324 has a hole that mates that geometry,thereby ensuring that the shaft 322 and gear 324 are not rotatable inrelation to each other when they are coupled. In a further alternative,the gear 324 is also adhesively coupled to the shaft 322 with JB Weld orany known adhesive material. Alternatively, the gear 324 and shaft 322can be coupled in any known fashion using any known coupling mechanismor configuration.

As best shown in FIG. 24B, the gear housing 304 has a housing cover(also referred to as a “housing cap”) 326 that is coupled to the distalportion of the gear housing 304 with screws 328 that are threadablycoupled through holes in the cover 326 and into the gear housing 304.The housing cover 326 and screws 328 can, in some embodiments, apply apreload force to bearings 340, 342 positioned inside the housing 304 (asbest shown in FIG. 24C). As best shown in FIGS. 23A and 23B, the drivespur gear 324 is operably coupled in the gear housing 304 to the drivenspur gear 336. As shown in FIG. 24C, the driven spur gear 336 isoperably coupled to the cautery end effector 332 and is supported bybearings 340, 342. The bearings 340, 342 are translationally fixed tothe driven spur gear 336 by a nut 338 that is threadably coupled to thespur gear 336. The nut 338 does not apply a preload to the bearings 340,342. In one embodiment, a spacer 344 is included to provide bearingspacing. The monopolar electrocautery end effector 332 is threadablycoupled at a proximal end of the end effector 332 to the spur gear 336.

In use, electricity is transferred from the proximal tip 334 of the endeffector 332 to the distal portion of the end effector 332 through aslip ring (not pictured) that is secured to the motor housing 302. Inone embodiment, the slip ring is secured to a configuration 314 formedin the motor housing 302 as shown in FIG. 22B. The distal end of the endeffector 332 is used to cauterize tissue.

In the embodiment described herein, the cautery forearm 300 has only onemotor assembly 320 that has a two-stage gearhead. The first stage is thegear head 320A coupled to the motor 320B, and the second stage is thespur gear set made up of the drive spur gear 324 and the driven spurgear 336.

In accordance with one implementation, the cautery forearm component 300does not contain a local control board. Instead, the component 300 canhave a flexible electrical ribbon cable (not shown) operably coupled tothe motor that connects to the local control in the upper arm (such asthe local control board 132 in FIG. 11A). In one embodiment, the localcontrol board in the upper arm (such as board 132, for example) can haveone or more extra components to facilitate an additional motor. Thesingle motor (not shown) in the cautery forearm component 300 canactuate rotation of the end effector 332.

FIGS. 25-29B depict yet another alternative embodiment of a cauteryforearm component 400 (which could, of course, be the forearm 30Bdiscussed and depicted above) that can be coupled to the upper arm 30A.This forearm 400 has a cautery end effector 402 that has an “inline”configuration that minimizes the overall cross-section of the forearm400 and ultimately the robotic device to which it is coupled, therebyaiding in both surgical visualization and insertion. As described infurther detail below, according to one embodiment, the inlineconfiguration has a direct-drive configuration that enables the size ofthe forearm 400 to be reduced by almost half.

As best shown in FIGS. 25, 26A, 26B, and 28A, according to oneimplementation, the cautery end effector 402 is a removable cautery tip402. The end effector 402 is removably coupled to the arm 400 at thedrive rod 404. More specifically, in this embodiment, the end effector402 has a lumen at its proximal end with threads formed on the inside ofthe lumen such that the threads 404A on the distal portion of the driverod 404 can be threaded into the lumen in the end effector 402. Thecoupling of the end effector 402 and the drive rod 404 results in anelectrical connection between the end effector 402 and the drive rod404.

As best shown in FIG. 26B, a first slip ring 426 electrically couplesthe monopolar cautery generator (the power source for the end effector402, which is not shown) to the motor coupler 410. More specifically,the first slip ring 426 is coupled to a wire 429 that is coupled to thegenerator (not shown), thereby electrically coupling the ring 426 to thegenerator. Further, the slip ring 426 is secured to the body portions430A, 430B (as best shown in FIG. 25 and discussed in further detailbelow) such that the ring 426 does not rotate in relation to the body430. In contrast, the slip ring 426 is rotatably coupled to the motorcoupler 410 such that the ring 426 and coupler 410 are electricallycoupled and can rotate in relation to each other. The motor coupler 410is threadably and electrically coupled to the drive rod 404. The cauteryend effector 402 is coupled to the electrical cautery interface (alsoreferred to herein as a “pin”) 412. This pin 412 is coupled to the driverod 404 via a second slip ring, which is positioned generally in thearea identified as 428 in FIG. 26B, thereby ultimately resulting in anelectrical connection between the end effector 402 and the first slipring 426. In one embodiment, the second slip ring 428 is secured to thedrive rod 404 or is a part of the drive rod 404. Alternatively, the slipring 428 can be a separate component. This electrical connection of thefirst slip ring 426 to the end effector 402 through the motor coupler410 enables transfer of the electrical energy to the end effector 402that is necessary for cauterization. This is explained further below.According to one embodiment, the coupling of the end effector 402 andthe drive rod 404 is maintained by the friction of the threadablecoupling of the two components, along with the deformability of the endeffector 402, which reduces the amount of force applied to thatcoupling. In accordance with one implementation, the end effector 402has an o-ring at its distal end that helps to create a seal at thecoupling to the drive rod 404 that inhibits inflow of biologicalmaterial.

Alternatively, the end effector 402 can be non-removable. Instead, theend effector 402 can be integrated into the drive rod such that the needfor the removable threaded connection would be eliminated. In such anembodiment, the second slip ring 428 could be replaced with a rigidelectrical connection.

As best shown in FIGS. 25, 28A, 28B, 28C, and 28D, two bearings 408A,408B are positioned over a proximal portion of the drive rod 404 andhelp to provide support to the end effector 402. The shoulder 406 on thedrive rod 404 help to maintain the position of the bearings 408A, 408Bin relation to the drive rod 404. In addition, the motor coupler 410 isthreadably coupled to threads 404B on the proximal end of the drive rod404 and thus also helps to retain the bearings 408A, 408B in place onthe drive rod 404. The electrical connection discussed above extendsthrough all three components: the motor coupler 410, the drive rod 404,and the end effector 402. According to one embodiment, as noted above,the pin 412 extending from the proximal portion of the end effector 402(as best shown in FIGS. 25 and 26A) makes the electrical connection ofthe three components possible. This configuration of the threecomponents allows for easy removal of one end effector 402 andreplacement with another end effector 402 that is positioned such thatthe electrical connection is re-established by the simple threadedcoupling of the new end effector 402 to the drive rod 404.

Alternatively, the bearings 408A, 408B can be replaced with othersupport components. One example would be bushings.

Continuing with FIGS. 25, 28C, and 28D, the motor coupler 410 couplesthe motor assembly 414 to the end effector 402 through the drive rod404. More specifically, the motor coupler 410 is coupled with the motorshaft 416 such that the coupler 410 is positioned over the shaft 416. Inone embodiment, the motor shaft 416 has a flat portion 416A on the shaftthat creates a “D-shaped” configuration and the motor coupler 410 has acorresponding “D-shaped” configuration that mates with the shaft 416such that the shaft 416 and coupled 410 are not rotatable in relation toeach other when they are coupled.

In accordance with one embodiment as best shown in FIGS. 28C and 28D,the motor coupler 410 has two portions with different diameters: a largeportion 410A and a small portion 410B. The small portion 410B is sizedto receive the first slip ring 426 discussed above that creates thenecessary electrical connection. That is, as discussed above, whenpositioned over the small portion 410B of the motor coupler 410, theslip ring 426 can provide a constant clamping force on the motor coupler410 that maintains the electrical connection between the motor coupler410 and the motor shaft 416 during rotation. This type of connection(the slip ring) allows for infinite rotation without twisting of anywires. With respect to the coupling of the motor coupler 410 with thedrive rod 404, the coupling in some implementations is reinforced orfurther secured with an adhesive. For example, the adhesive could be aLoctite® adhesive or any other known adhesive for use in medical devicecomponents.

As best shown in FIGS. 29A and 29B, the proximal end of the forearm 400has a coupling component 420 that allows for coupling the forearm 400 tothe rest of the surgical system with which the forearm is incorporated.For example, in the device 10 depicted and discussed above, the couplingcomponent 420 would be coupled to the upper arm 30A. The couplingcomponent 420 is coupled to the proximal portion of the forearm 400 withtwo screws 424 that are positioned through holes in the forearm 400 andinto a portion of the coupling component 420 as shown.

The coupling component 420 has an opening 422 defined in the component420 (as best shown in FIG. 29B) that couples to the appropriatecomponent of the surgical system. In this embodiment, the opening 422 isa rectangular-shaped opening 422, but it is understood that it could beany configuration of any type of coupling component or mechanism,depending on the system to which the forearm 400 is being coupled.

Alternatively, the coupling component 420 can be eliminated in thoseembodiments in which the forearm 400 is an integral part of the upperarm of a device or in any embodiment in which there is no forearm.

Returning to FIGS. 25 and 26A, the body 430 of the forearm 400 is madeup of two body portions (also referred to as “shells”) 430A, 430B. Thetwo portions 430A, 430B are coupled together with the screws 432 and theaforementioned screws 424. According to one embodiment, each of the twobody portions 430A, 430B have internal features as best shown in FIG.26A that help to retain the motor assembly 414, bearings 408A, 408B, andother internal components in position with respect to each other insidethe body 430. In one implementation, there is space provided within thebody 430 to allow for inclusion of any excess wires. It is understoodthat additional components or mechanisms can be included on an outerportion of the portions 430A, 430B to aid in fluidically sealing thebody 430. For example, in one embodiment, the interface of the portions430A, 430B may have mating lip and groove configurations to provide afluidic seal at the coupling of the two portions 430A, 430B.

Another embodiment of a robotic device 500 is depicted in FIGS. 30-39B.This embodiment has a device body 510, a left arm 520, and a right arm530, as shown in FIG. 30. Both the left and right arms 520, 530 are eachcomprised of 2 segments: an upper arm (or “first link”) and a forearm(or “second link”). Thus, the left arm 520 has an upper arm 520A and aforearm 520B and the right arm 530 has an upper arm 530A and a forearm530B.

In this embodiment, the robotic device 500 is similar in some respectsto the device embodiment described above and depicted in FIGS. 1A-2.However, the current device 500 is unique because of its “clutch-like”joint configuration as described in detail below. To insert a device orplatform in a NOTES procedure through a natural orifice, the device 500needs to be very flexible to navigate the natural curvature of thenatural orifice. The clutch-like joint configuration at each joint inthis device 500 provides the device 500 with the necessary flexibility.According to one embodiment, this device 500 will be locally controlledby a control system similar to the system described above with respectto the previous embodiments.

The clutch-like configuration, according to one embodiment, is bestshown in FIGS. 32A and 32B. As can be seen in these figures, the overalljoint design is fairly similar to the joint design of the embodimentsdescribed above. However, in this embodiment, the drive bevel gear 560has a portion 562 of the gear 560 that has no teeth. The tooth-freeportion 562 creates the clutch-like configuration. That is, when thedrive bevel gear 560 is positioned such that the tooth-free portion 562is in contact with or adjacent to the driven gear 564 such that no teethare engaged, the overall joint 566 is free to move and thus hasflexibility that can be helpful during insertion.

As best shown in FIGS. 31A, 31B, and 31C, this embodiment can also haveone or more rubber band-like components (also referred to herein as“elastomers” or “elastic bands”) 550 that can be used to keep each jointstabilized and thus each arm positioned to keep the robotic device 520as compact as possible during insertion. In a further embodiment, theband(s) 550 can also keep the arms in the correct position forengagement of the bevel gears. More specifically, the device body 510and the two upper arms 520A, 530A have a channel 552 formed on a topportion of each component as shown in FIG. 31B that is configured toreceive the elastic band(s) 550. In certain embodiments, there are alsobolts 554 positioned at strategic locations—such as, for example, thelocations shown in FIG. 31B—to which the elastic band(s) 550 can beattached. In one implementation, the elastic band (or bands) 550 appliesforces to the arms 520A, 530A that urge the arms 520A, 530A together asshown by the arrows in FIG. 31B while also urging both arms upward asshown by the arrow in FIG. 31C.

In one alternative embodiment, this clutch-like configuration could alsobe used for homing if the positioning of the arms 520, 530 is lost (thatis, the joint positions are unknown). In that scenario, each of thedrive bevel gears could be positioned so that they are not engaged,whereby the joint positions of the device 500 are known once again. Inthis embodiment, no additional redundant position sensors would beneeded.

It is understood that other types of stabilization devices or mechanismscould also be used in place of the elastic bands 550. For example, inone alternative embodiment, two torsion springs could be used that arepositioned opposite of each other, resulting in equal and oppositerotational forces. Alternatively, other known clutch-like devices ormechanisms could be used, including, for example, any commerciallyavailable or custom made clutch. In further alternatives, flexible linkscould be used in combination with solid bevel gears (no teeth missing).In such embodiments, the flexibility of the flexible links could beactivated thermally (thermo plastic), electrically (shape memory alloy),or mechanically (friction based). FIG. 31D depicts one exemplaryembodiment of a mechanically-activated link 556. The link 556 becomesflexible when a small force F is applied to the cable 558, therebyreducing the friction between the balls 557 and sockets 559 in the link556 and thus creating flexibility in the link 556. In contrast, when alarge force F is applied to the cable 558, friction is increased betweenthe balls 557 and sockets 559 and the link 556 becomes more rigid.

FIG. 33 depicts the various degrees of freedom of the various joints ofthe two arms 520, 530. In this embodiment, the left arm 520 has fourdegrees of freedom, while the right arm 530 has five degrees of freedom.More specifically, moving from the proximal end of the right arm 530 tothe distal end, the right arm 530 has shoulder pitch (θ1), shoulder yaw(θ2), elbow roll (θ3), elbow yaw (θ4), and end effector roll (θ5). Incontrast, the left arm 520 has shoulder pitch, shoulder yaw, elbow yaw,and end effector roll, but no elbow roll. Alternatively, any other knownkinematic configuration could also be used. The multiple degrees offreedom for each arm results in more dexterous arms for more precisionoperations.

FIG. 34 depicts the key components that make up the joint (also referredto as an “elbow joint”) between the upper arm 530A and the forearm 530Bof the right arm 530. The upper arm 530A has a motor assembly 600 thatincludes a motor, an encoder, and a gearhead. The distal end of themotor assembly 600 is positioned in and coupled to the gear housing 602.In one embodiment, the motor assembly 600 has a flat portion along anexterior portion of the assembly 600 that creates a “D-shaped”configuration that matches a D-shaped configuration of a lumen in thegear housing 602 such that the assembly 600 and housing 602 cannotrotate in relation to each other when the assembly 600 is positioned inthe lumen. In a further implementation, an adhesive can also be used tofurther secure the assembly 600 and housing 602.

The motor assembly 600 has a motor shaft 600A extending from the distalend of the assembly 600. The shaft 600A can be coupled to the motor spurgear 604 such that the spur gear 604 is positioned over the shaft 600A.In one embodiment, the shaft 600A has a flat portion that results in a“D-shaped configuration that matches a “D-shaped” configuration of thelumen in the spur gear 604 such that when the spur gear 604 ispositioned over the shaft 600A, neither component can rotate in relationto the other. The motor spur gear 604 couples or mates with the drivenspur gear 606 when the two gears are properly positioned in the gearhousing 602 such that rotation of the motor spur gear 604 rotates thedriven spur gear 606.

The driven spur gear 606 is coupled to the output link 608 such thatactuation of the motor assembly 600 causes the output link 608 torotate. More specifically, the driven gear 606 is positioned over theproximal end of the output link 608. In one embodiment, a portion of theproximal end of the output link 608 has a flat portion that results in a“D-shaped” configuration as described with respect to other componentsabove, thereby resulting in the output link 608 and spur gear 606 beingcoupled such that they are not rotatable in relation to each other. Ascrew 610 is threadably coupled to the output link 608 and secures thespur gear 606 on the output link 608, along with the bearings 612, 614,while also translationally securing the output link 608. The bearings612, 614 can constrain and support the output link 608 and are supportedwithin the gear housing 602. The components are retained in the gearhousing 602 with the help of the housing cover 616, which is secured tothe housing 602 with the help of screws 618, which also apply a preloadforce through the gear housing cover 616. According to one embodiment,the screw 620 helps to secure an elastic band between the upper arm 530Aand forearm 530B, as described above.

FIG. 35 depicts the forearm 530B and end effector 630 of the right arm530. In this embodiment, the end effector 630 is another implementationof a monopolar electrocautery device 630. The forearm 530B has a motorhousing 632 that is configured to hold the motor assembly (not shown)and also contains the slip ring 638, which is secured in the housing632. It is understood that the motor assembly and associated drive trainare substantially similar to the same components in the upper arm asdescribed above.

The motor spur gear 634 is operably coupled to the driven spur gear 636in the motor housing 632. The driven gear 636 is supported andconstrained by bearing 640 and bushing 642, which prevents translationof the driven gear 636. The driven gear 636 is threadably coupled to theremovable end effector 630 via the threads on the distal portion of thegear 636. The end effector 630 is electrically coupled to the slip ring638.

In addition, according to one embodiment, the forearm 530B isfluidically sealed such that external fluids (such as body fluids, forexample) are prevented from entering the internal portions of theforearm 530B. One component that helps to fluidically seal the forearm530B is a gasket 644, which is positioned between the housing 632 andthe housing cover 646 such that the screws 648 that secure the housingcover 646 to the housing 632 also secures the gasket 644 to the bushing642. In one embodiment, the gasket 644 is made of soft urethane orsilicon. Alternatively, the gasket 644 is made of any material that canhelp to fluidically seal the housing 632.

FIGS. 36-39B depict the forearm 520B and end effector 650 of the leftarm 520. In this embodiment, the end effector 650 is anotherimplementation of a grasper component (also referred to herein as a“tissue manipulation component” or “tissue manipulator”) 650. As bestshown in FIGS. 36 and 37, the forearm 520B has two motor assemblies: therotation motor assembly 652 and the grasper motor assembly 654. As bestshown in FIG. 36, the rotation motor assembly 652 can cause the forearm520B to rotate. As best shown in FIG. 37, the grasper motor assembly 654can cause the grasper 650 to move between its open and closed positions.

Returning to FIG. 36, in one embodiment, the rotation motor assembly 652has a motor, an encoder, and an integrated gear head. Further, theassembly 652 has a motor shaft 656 that couples to the motor spur gear658. According to one implementation, the shaft 656 has a flat portion656A that results in the shaft 656 having a “D-shaped” configurationthat mates with a “D-shaped” lumen defined in the spur gear 658. Assuch, the shaft 656 and gear 658 are coupled such that neither componentcan rotate in relation to the other. A portion of the motor assembly 652and the motor spur gear 658 are positioned in the proximal gear housing660, which also houses the driven spur gear 662 such that the motor spurgear 658 and driven spur gear 662 are rotatably coupled to each otherwhen positioned in the housing 660. In one embodiment, the motorassembly 652 is coupled to the housing 660, and in certainimplementations, the assembly 652 is geometrically and/or adhesivelysecured to the housing 660. Actuation of the motor assembly 652 causesrotation of the motor spur gear 658, which causes rotation of the drivenspur gear 662.

The driven spur gear 662 is operably coupled to the output link 664,which is coupled to the upper arm 520A and thus is part of the jointbetween the upper arm 520A and forearm 520B. As shown in FIG. 36, thedriven spur gear 662 and two bearings 666, 668 are positioned on theoutput link 664 such that the bearings 666, 668 are supported within theproximal gear housing 660 and provide some support and constraint to theoutput link 664. A screw 670 is coupled to the output link 664 and helpsto secure the gear 662 and bearings 666, 668 to the link 664 while alsotranslationally constraining the link 664. In one embodiment, the outputlink 664 has a flat portion 664A that creates a “D-shaped” configurationthat mates with a D-shaped lumen defined in the driven spur gear 662such that the gear 662 and link 664 cannot rotate in relation to eachother when the gear 662 is positioned on the link 664.

The housing 660 also has a housing cover 672 that is positioned over theopening in the housing 660 that contains the gears 658, 662. The cover672 is secured in place by screws 674 and thereby applies a preloadforce to the bearings 666, 668. The housing also has an additional screw676 that can be used to secure or otherwise constrain an elastic bandthat is coupled to both the upper arm 520A and the forearm 520B tostabilize the arms as described above.

In one implementation, the housing 660 is configured to be fluidicallysealed such that no liquid can gain access to any interior portions ofthe housing 660.

Returning to FIG. 37, in one embodiment, the grasper motor assembly 654has a motor, an encoder, and an integrated gear head. Further, theassembly 654 has a motor shaft 680 that couples to the motor spur gear682. According to one implementation, the shaft 680 has a flat portion680A that results in the shaft 680 having a “D-shaped” configurationthat mates with a “D-shaped” lumen defined in the spur gear 682. Assuch, the shaft 680 and gear 682 are coupled such that neither componentcan rotate in relation to the other. A portion of the motor assembly 654and the motor spur gear 682 are positioned in the distal gear housing684, which also houses the driven spur gear 686 such that the motor spurgear 682 and driven spur gear 686 are rotatably coupled to each otherwhen positioned in the housing 684. In one embodiment, the motorassembly 654 is coupled to the housing 684, and in certainimplementations, the assembly 654 is geometrically and/or adhesivelysecured to the housing 684. Actuation of the motor assembly 654 causesthe grasper 650 to move between its open and closed positions, asdescribed in detail below.

The driven spur gear 686 is operably coupled to a push/pull mate 688,which is coupled to the grasper 650. More specifically, the driven spurgear 686 and two bearings 690, 692 are positioned on a threaded rod 694extending from the push/pull mate 688 such that the bearings 690, 692are supported within the distal gear housing 684 and provide somesupport and constraint to the driven gear 686. The gear 686 isthreadably coupled to the rod 694. A housing cover 702 is configured tocover the opening in the gear housing 684 and thereby applies apreloading force to bearings 690, 692 via screws 704, 708 that arethreadably coupled through the cover 702 and into the housing 684. Thehousing 684 also has a gasket or seal 710 that fluidically seals againstthe push/pull mate 688, thereby preventing any fluids from entering theinterior of the housing 684. In one embodiment, the seal 710 is made ofsoft urethane or silicon or any other known material for use in creatinga fluidic seal.

When the driven spur gear 686 rotates, the push/pull mate 688translates, because the push/pull mate 688 is rotationally constrainedto the grasper housing 696. More specifically, as best shown in FIGS.38A and 38B, the push/pull mate 688 has a projection 689 that extendsaway from the push/pull mate 688 at 90 degrees in relation to thelongitudinal axis of the forearm 520B. As such, the projection 689 ispositioned in the housing 696 such that the push/pull mate 688 cannotrotate in relation to the housing 696.

In one embodiment, as best shown in FIGS. 37, 38A, and 39A, the grasper650 is removably coupled to the push/pull mate 688 via a ball and socketcoupling, with the ball 698 positioned at a proximal end of thereplaceable grasper 650. Through this coupling, the translational motionof the push/pull mate 688 is transferred to the grasper 650 jaws suchthat the jaws move between open and closed positions. The grasper 650 isgeometrically and adhesively constrained to the grasper mate 700, whichis geometrically constrained to the grasper housing 696.

As best shown in FIG. 38A, 39A, and 39B, the grasper 650 and the graspermate 700 are configured to be removably mateable to the distal end ofthe grasper housing 696 and the push/pull mate 688 as described above.As such, the grasper 650 can be easily coupled for use and just aseasily removed and replaced with another end effector. According to oneimplementation, the grasper end effector 650 could be replaced withother known manipulation devices such as, but not limited to, othertoothed graspers, bipolar electrocautery devices, clip appliers, shears,ultrasonic sealers, and the like. When the grasper 650 (or other endeffector) has been coupled to the grasper housing 696 and the push/pullmate 688 such that the ball 698 is positioned in the socket of thepush/pull mate 688, the end effector 650 can be secured to the housing696 with an elastic band 712 as shown in FIG. 39B. Alternatively, anyother type of band or retention device or mechanism can be used.

The various in vivo robotic devices disclosed herein and other suchdevices are intended to be inserted into and positioned inside a cavityinside a patient, such as, for example, the peritoneal cavity. Variousmethods and devices can be used to achieve the insertion of the deviceinto the cavity. FIGS. 40A-45 depict various embodiments of suchinsertion devices.

FIGS. 40A, 41A, and 41B depict an insertion device 800 having aninsertion tube 802 defining an insertion chamber 804, an insertion port806, and a proximal tube cover 808. As shown in FIG. 40A, in use, arobotic device 810 (such as, for example, any of the device embodimentsdiscussed above), can be positioned inside the insertion chamber 804 andcoupled to an insertion rod 812 that is positioned through the proximaltube cover 808. The device 800 can be positioned against an incision ina patient that accesses the target cavity such that the insertion port806 is positioned against or in the incision. Once the device 800 iscorrectly positioned, a user can use the insertion rod 812 to urge thedevice 810 out of the chamber 804 through the port 806 and into thepatient's cavity.

Alternatively, as best shown in FIG. 40B (including FIGS. 40B-1, 40B-2,40B-3, and 40B-4), the robotic device 810 can be positioned inside theinsertion tube 802 and magnetically coupled to a handle 824 positionedalong an external portion of the tube 802 (as shown in FIG. 40B-1).According to some implementations, the handle 824 can be used tointroduce the robotic device 810 into the abdominal cavity and securethe device 810 to the abdominal wall through a magnetic coupling. Morespecifically, once an opening is established between the chamber 804 andthe patient's cavity, the handle 824 can be urged distally along theouter surface of the tube 802, thereby urging the device 810 viamagnetic forces in a distal direction as well such that the device 810is urged out of the distal end of the tube 802 as best shown in FIG.40B-2. The handle 824 can then be urged to the end of the tube 802 suchthat the arms of the device 810 fully exit the chamber 804 as best shownin FIG. 40B-3 and further such that the entire device 810 exits thechamber 804 and is positioned in the cavity using the handle 824(wherein the handle 824 is positioned outside the patient's body) asbest shown in FIG. 40B-4. This insertion method can allow the orifice orinsertion tube 802 to remain open for the duration of the surgicalprocedure. The orifice or insertion tube 802 can be used by othersurgical devices as well, such as for specimen removal, for example.Furthermore, the magnetic coupling can allow the robotic device 810 toaccess a larger area of the abdominal cavity with different platformorientations. According to one embodiment, a channel could be createdwithin the orifice or insertion tube 802 that can pass the communicationand power tether to the robotic device 810.

According to one embodiment, the insertion tube 802 is comprised of asingle rigid and/or flexible tubular structure. Alternatively, the tube802 is not limited to a tubular configuration and could have any knownshape that could contain a robotic device for insertion into a patient'scavity. For example, in one embodiment, the cross-section of the tube802 could have a rectangular or oval shape.

In a further alternative, the insertion tube 802 can be flexible. Insuch an embodiment, once the insertion port 806 is secured to orotherwise coupled with the incision site, the flexible tube 802 (withthe robotic device housed within) could be coupled to the port 806. Atthat point, the abdominal cavity is insufflated and the flexible tube802 becomes semi-rigid as a result of the insufflation, like a balloonfull of air. The robotic device is then inserted and, in one embodiment,the flexible tube 802 collapses at a point parallel to the coupling ofthe insertion rod to the device, reducing the external size of the tube802. A pressure release valve would be needed to account for the changein volume.

FIGS. 42A and 42B depict one embodiment of the proximal tube cover 808.In this embodiment, the cover 808 has a tube mate 850 coupled to theinsertion tube 802. In one embodiment, the tube mate 850 isgeometrically and/or adhesively secured to the tube 802. The tube mate850 is coupled at its opposite end to a housing 852. In this embodiment,the tube mate 850 and housing 852 are coupled with screws 854.Alternatively, any known coupling mechanisms or methods can be used. Inone implementation, a gasket 856 is positioned between the tube mate 850and housing 852. A bushing 864 is positioned in and secured to thehousing 852. In accordance with one implementation, the bushing 864 canbe mated with the insertion rod 812 described above such that the rod812 can move longitudinally with smooth linear motion. The housing 852is coupled to a seal cap 858 via screws 860, and a gasket 862 and a seal866 are positioned between the housing 852 and cap 858. In oneembodiment, the seal 866 creates a dynamic seal between the insertionrod 812 and the seal 866 to prevent the loss of insufflation of theabdominal cavity as the rod 812 is moved back and forth during aprocedure.

FIG. 43 depicts one implementation of the insertion port 806. As shown,the port 806 includes a insertion cone 880 and a tube mate 882. The tubemate 882 is coupled to the insertion tube 802. The tube mate 882 can begeometrically and/or adhesively coupled to the tube 802. On the oppositeend, the tube mate 882 is coupled to the insertion cone 880 with screws884. In addition, a gasket 886 is positioned between the tube mate 882and the insertion cone 880.

It is understood that the insertion cone 880 is not limited to conicalgeometry. That is, the insertion cone 880 could also have a tubularconfiguration or any other known configuration so long as the componentcould still operate as a port.

In certain alternative embodiments, any of the robotic devices disclosedor contemplated herein (including, for example, the robotic devices 8,810) can be manually inserted into the abdominal cavity through theadvancement of an insertion rod (such as, for example, the insertionrods 40, 812 described above) or a magnet. Alternatively, any suchrobotic device (such as robotic device 8, 810) can be roboticallyinserted into the abdominal cavity through the use of a robotic arm. Insuch an embodiment, the insertion procedure could be performed by thesurgeon or autonomously. It is understood that the robotic devices suchas devices 8, 810 have a “sweet spot” or robotic workspace volume withhigh dexterity and manipulability. The use of a robotic arm can expandthis workspace volume such that the volume includes the entire abdominalcavity. According to another implementation, a “soft boundary” can becreated between the workspace boundary, or limits, and the “sweet spot”of the workspace. That is, if the device crosses the soft boundary, thesystem has a sensor or other mechanism that is triggered such that thesystem actuates the external robotic arm to automatically and/orautonomously grossly position the robotic device back to the “sweetspot” of the workspace. Such repositioning operation can also be donemanually or robotically under surgeon supervision. Autonomous grosspositioning could eliminate the bed side assistant and human errors thatcommonly occur between the surgeon and assistant relating to positioningof the robotic device.

Various embodiments of the insertion device 800 can have cameras (alsoreferred to herein as “visualization devices”). The camera embodimentsdisclosed herein allow the user to view the device during insertion intoand use in the patient's cavity.

Returning to FIG. 40A, in one embodiment, a camera 814 is housed withinthe insertion port 806. According to one embodiment, the camera 814 is a3 MM CMOS camera 814. The vision cone 820 (the area captured by thecamera 814 such that a user can see that area on the display) achievedby the camera 814 is shown. In one embodiment, the camera 814 is coupledto a connection component 816 that couples the camera 814 to a monitor818 or other type of display. Light, in this embodiment, is provided byLED lights 822 positioned on the distal end of the insertion port 806.Alternatively, any known lights that can be used with a medical deviceto illuminate a surgical space for viewing with a camera can be used.

FIGS. 44A-44F depict another embodiment of a camera 890 for use withcertain embodiments of the insertion device 800. The camera 890 haslights 892 coupled to the camera 890. In this embodiment, the camera 890is coupled to the device 800 with a four-bar linkage 896 made up of fourbars (or “links”) 896A, 896B, 896C, 896D. That is, the four bars 896A,896B, 896C, 896D can be manipulated by a user to move the camera 890 outof the cone 880 and position it to view the robotic device duringinsertion and use as shown in the figures. The vision cone 894 providesa schematic depiction of the area captured by the camera 890 in oneembodiment. This configuration allows for a larger camera (such as, forexample, a high definition camera) to be housed in the insertion cone880 prior to insertion of the device (when the device is not positionedin or through the cone 880) and then moved out of the cone 880 duringuse. That is, once the port 806 is attached to the incision site and thecavity is insufflated, the camera 890 can be deployed via the four-barlinkage 896. This positioning of the camera in the cone 880 and thenmoving it out of the cone allows for the robotic device to always beunder visualization during insertion.

In a further alternative, any other known actuation device or mechanismcould be used to deploy the camera. One such further example is apreformed shape memory alloy or the like.

In one embodiment, the camera 890 is a USB webcam.

FIGS. 45A-45D depict yet another camera implementation. In thisembodiment, the camera 900 is coupled to a linkage 902 that is coupledto an exterior portion of the insertion cone 880. More specifically, thelinkage 902 is made up of two links 902A, 902B, and the camera 900 iscoupled to the link 902B. The link 902A is pivotally coupled to theinsertion cone 880, and the link 902B is pivotally coupled to the link902A. In an undeployed configuration as shown in FIGS. 45B, 45C, and45D, the links 902A, 902B are configured such that the camera 900 andlinks 902A, 902B form a portion of the cone 880. In the deployedconfiguration as shown in FIG. 45A, the links 902A, 902B are extended sothat the camera 900 is in a position to capture images of the surgicalarea. The lights (not shown) can be coupled to the link 902B or link902A (or both) to illuminate the viewing area.

It is understood that any of the camera embodiments disclosed above canalso have a zoom lens package or mechanical translation parallel to theaxis of the vision cone via a linear actuator.

Although the present invention has been described with reference topreferred embodiments, persons skilled in the art will recognize thatchanges may be made in form and detail without departing from the spiritand scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A robotic device, comprising: (a) a device bodyconfigured to be positioned at least partially within a body cavity of apatient through an incision, the device body comprising: (i) a motorhousing comprising a first motor and a second motor; (ii) a gear housingcomprising: (A) a first gear positioned at a distal end of the gearhousing, the first gear operably coupled to the first motor; and (B) asecond gear positioned at a distal end of the gear housing, the secondgear operably coupled to the second motor; (b) a first arm operablycoupled to the first gear, wherein the first arm is positionedsubstantially within a longitudinal cross-section of the device bodywhen the first arm is extended in a straight configuration; (c) a secondarm operably coupled to the second gear, wherein the second arm ispositioned substantially within the longitudinal cross-section of thedevice body when the second arm is extended in a straight configuration;and (d) an elastic band operably coupled to the device body and thefirst and second arms, wherein the elastic band is configured to urgethe first and second arms toward the straight configuration.
 2. Therobotic device of claim 1, wherein the gear housing comprises first,second, and third housing protrusions disposed at the distal end of thegear housing, wherein the first gear is disposed between the first andsecond housing protrusions and the second gear is disposed between thesecond and third housing protrusions.
 3. The robotic device of claim 1,wherein the first arm is operably coupled to the first gear at a firstshoulder joint, wherein the first shoulder joint is positionedsubstantially within the longitudinal cross-section of the device body.4. The robotic device of claim 3, wherein the second arm is operablycoupled to the second gear at a second shoulder joint, wherein thesecond shoulder joint is positioned substantially within thelongitudinal cross-section of the device body.
 5. The robotic device ofclaim 1, wherein the first gear is configured to rotate around a firstaxis parallel to a length of the device body.
 6. The robotic device ofclaim 5, wherein the second gear is configured to rotate around a secondaxis parallel to the length of the device body.
 7. The robotic device ofclaim 1, wherein the first arm comprises a first upper arm and a firstforearm, wherein the first upper arm and the first forearm are collinearwhen the first arm is extended in the straight configuration.
 8. Therobotic device of claim 7, wherein the second arm comprises a secondupper arm and a second forearm, wherein the second upper arm and thesecond forearm are collinear when the second arm is extended in thestraight configuration.
 9. The robotic device of claim 1, wherein thedevice body is operably coupled to a support rod.
 10. The robotic deviceof claim 1, wherein the first and second arms each comprise at least onearm motor operably coupled to at least one local control board.
 11. Therobotic device of claim 1, wherein the first gear comprises a tooth-freeportion and the second gear comprises a tooth-free portion.
 12. Arobotic device, comprising: (a) a device body configured to bepositioned at least partially within a body cavity of a patient throughan incision, the device body comprising: (i) a first gear positioned ata distal end of the device body, the first gear configured to rotatearound a first axis parallel to a length of the device body; (ii) asecond gear positioned at the distal end of the device body, the secondgear configured to rotate around a second axis parallel to the length ofthe device body; (b) a first arm operably coupled to the first gear at afirst shoulder joint, wherein the first shoulder joint is positionedsubstantially within a longitudinal cross-section of the device body;(c) a second arm operably coupled to the second gear at a secondshoulder joint, wherein the second shoulder joint is positionedsubstantially within the longitudinal cross-section of the device body;and (d) an elastic band operably coupled to the device body and thefirst and second arms, wherein the elastic band is configured to urgethe first and second arms toward the straight configuration.
 13. Therobotic device of claim 12, wherein the first arm is positionedsubstantially within the longitudinal cross-section of the device bodywhen the first arm is extended in a straight configuration.
 14. Therobotic device of claim 12, wherein the second arm is positionedsubstantially within the longitudinal cross-section of the device bodywhen the second arm is extended in a straight configuration.
 15. Therobotic device of claim 12, wherein the first arm comprises a firstupper arm and a first forearm, wherein the first upper arm and the firstforearm are collinear when the first arm is extended in a straightconfiguration.
 16. The robotic device of claim 15, wherein the secondarm comprises a second upper arm and a second forearm, wherein thesecond upper arm and the second forearm are collinear when the secondarm is extended in a straight configuration.
 17. The robotic device ofclaim 12, wherein the first gear comprises a tooth-free portion and thesecond gear comprises a tooth-free portion.
 18. A robotic device,comprising: (a) a device body configured to be positioned at leastpartially within a body cavity of a patient through an incision, thedevice body comprising: (i) a motor housing comprising a first motor anda second motor; (ii) a gear housing comprising: (A) a first gearpositioned at a distal end of the gear housing, the first gear operablycoupled to the first motor, wherein the first gear is positioned torotate around a first axis parallel to a length of the device body,wherein the first gear comprises a first tooth-free portion; and (B) asecond gear positioned at a distal end of the gear housing, the secondgear operably coupled to the second motor, wherein the second gear ispositioned to rotate around a second axis parallel to the length of thedevice body, wherein the second gear comprises a second tooth-freeportion; (b) a first arm operably coupled to the first gear, the firstarm comprising a first upper arm and a first forearm, wherein the firstarm is positioned substantially within a longitudinal cross-section ofthe device body when the first arm is extended in a straightconfiguration such that the first upper arm and the first forearm arecollinear; (c) a second arm operably coupled to the second gear, thesecond arm comprising a second upper arm and a second forearm, whereinthe second arm is positioned substantially within the longitudinalcross-section of the device body when the second arm is extended in astraight configuration such that the second upper arm and the secondforearm are collinear; and (d) an elastic band operably coupled to thedevice body and the first and second arms, wherein the elastic band isconfigured to urge the first and second arms toward the straightconfiguration.
 19. The robotic device of claim 18, wherein the first armis operably coupled to the first gear at a first shoulder joint, whereinthe first shoulder joint is positioned substantially within thelongitudinal cross-section of the device body.
 20. The robotic device ofclaim 19, wherein the second arm is operably coupled to the second gearat a second shoulder joint, wherein the second shoulder joint ispositioned substantially within the longitudinal cross-section of thedevice body.